Fans of fine food, especially of the vegan variety, went into a tizzy when word came last monththat the chefs behind Philadelphia's acclaimed plant-based Vedge restaurant were opening a concept in Washington. Their street-food-themed V Street won't arrive until late fall, so be patient.

[The chefs behind the best vegan food in the country are opening a restaurant in D.C.]

In the meantime, if you're looking to get your fix of satisfying food free of meat, eggs or dairy, you've got plenty of options. Here's a sampling of local spots that are exclusively vegan:

Elizabeth's Gone Raw: Once a week, this downtown venue offers a tasting menu of minimally cooked vegan fare, with such creations as a cauliflower terrine with kelp caviar and yellow pepper-turmeric sorbet.1341 L St. NW.

HipCityVeg: This Philadelphia import puts a vegan twist on fast-food staples. Its signatureCrispy HipCity Ranch is a pretty good riff on a fried chicken sandwich.712 Seventh St. NW.

[Tastes like chicken? We tried HipCityVeg's Crispy HipCity Ranch.]

NuVegan Cafe: Formerly Woodland's Vegan Bistro (and before that, Everlasting Life Cafe), the menu here features an array of comfort and soul food-inspired options, from fried chick'n and lasagna to mac and cheese and collard greens.2928 Georgia Ave.;8150 Baltimore Ave., College Park.

Postmodern Foods:In addition to a line of juices, this organic operation has a repertoire that includes sushi, collard wraps and desserts.762B Walker Rd., Great Falls.

Shouk:A pita-based shop with Middle Eastern flair that doesn't use the word vegan. The veggie burger may be the best in Washington. 655 K St. NW.

[Shouk is serving our new favorite veggie burger in Washington]

Soupergirl: You'll find filling, interesting soups, plus salads and sandwiches, at this pair of shops. Some of the best offerings are in the summer, when there's a variety of refreshing gazpachos.314 Carroll St. NW;1829 M St. NW.

Sticky Fingers: A longtime staple on the vegan scene, this bakery offers a large menu of sweets (cakes, cookies, muffins, etc.) and casual savory fare. (There's a sister diner, Fare Well, on H Street NE.)1370 Park Rd. NW.

Read more:

The next frontier for vegan restaurants? Not calling yourself a vegan restaurant.

What D.C. restaurants have finally changed about the way they treat vegetables

Continued here:

7 vegan restaurants where you can eat so much more than salad - Washington Post